A Carlton Draught Derby is always a big occasion, and Sunday’s clash with West Coast will be no different for Nick Suban’s 150th AFL game.

But Suban isn’t planning on getting carried away with the festivities as he faces another big test against West Coast’s midfield. 

Suban has played a tagging role during the past three weeks on the likes of Geelong’s Patrick Dangerfield, St Kilda’s Jack Steven and North Melbourne’s Shaun Higgins.

In round 15 against the Saints, Suban was credited with four votes in the AFL Coaches Association Champion Player of the Year award for his shutdown role on Steven while collecting 27 disposals. 

West Coast’s Luke Shuey poses a chance as Suban’s next opponent on Sunday. 

“I’ve played on all of (West Coast’s midfielders) at certain stages, they’re all really quality players,” Suban said.

“Luke Shuey’s having a great year. I’m sure if I line up on any of them it’ll be a tough day.

“Shuey’s obviously a quality player, he’s very good with the ball on both sides of the body and damaging going forward.

“Whoever (plays on Shuey), I’m sure it’ll be a tough contest.”

While the excitement builds around the 46th Derby, Suban says Fremantle will remain consistent in their preparations.

“We’re really excited to get out there this weekend and try and perform and improve,” Suban said.

“The derby is a pumped up game by the fans and the media but it’s just another week for us, we look to improve and hopefully we can get a win.”

In playing his 150th game, Nick Suban will qualify for life membership at Fremantle.

Drafted in 2008, Suban will reach the 150 milestone in his ninth season at Fremantle and just weeks after becoming a father with the arrival of son Jack. 

“I haven’t really thought about (qualifying for life membership) yet,” Suban said. 

“Playing at the elite level is probably the biggest thing for me.

“To play 150 games, I never thought I’d play one game, so to do that I’m sure when I look back I’ll be very proud.”